Where to Have Your Pets Spayed or Neutered

By The Humane Society of the United States

Most people ask their regular veterinarian to spay or neuter their pets. If you have trouble affording the procedures, try these steps:

Call your local animal shelter. It may operate a clinic or know of a local clinic that offers subsidized services. It may also offer vouchers to have your pet spayed or neutered at a lower cost by local cooperating private veterinarians. You can find the name and number of your local shelter in the Yellow Pages of your phone book under "animal shelter," "humane society," or "animal control," or by calling Information.

Call SPAY USA. Spay USA is a national spay/neuter referral network that may be able to direct you to subsidized spay/neuter clinics in your area. Spay USA can be reached at 1-800-248-SPAY (1-800-248-7729).

Call your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may be able to work out special financing options for you. Remember that, even if you pay full price for the procedures, spaying or neutering is a one-time cost with a lifetime of benefits. Spaying or neutering your pet not only helps curb pet overpopulation but also reduces your pet's risk of succumbing to many health problems. It remains one of the best bargains in animal health care.